ONVIF: What are its advantages with CCTV equipment in stores?

What is the ONVIF protocol? Why is it important for surveillance in stores? What are its advantages? What does it feature? At Veesion, we give you all the information that you need.

An overview of the ONVIF protocol

ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is a communication standard that enables IP products within the video surveillance industry (camera, recorder) to communicate with one another, regardless of their brand or model. This global forum was created in 2008 to standardise communications between these various elements of equipment within a single network and system.

Characteristics of the ONVIF protocol

The peripherals compliant with the ONVIF protocol are characterised by three aspects: Communication, total interoperability, and open access to all companies.

Standardisation of communications between IP devices

Models of IP camera, video recorder and video management software are all compatible with ONVIF. This hugely facilitates the implementation of complex surveillance systems, as the devices can efficiently communicate and share information, such as network configuration or video flows, whilst respecting  GDPR directives.

Interoperability between all video equipment

Interoperability is a key aspect of the ONVIF standard. By enabling various video surveillance products to communicate with one another, regardless of their brand or model, ONVIF guarantees that users can easily integrate cameras and surveillance equipment from different brands into a common system. This offers greater flexibility in the use of different surveillance devices.

Open access to all companies and organisations

The ONVIF standard encourages healthy competition and continuous innovation in the field of video surveillance. Companies develop products which meet specific market needs whilst guaranteeing compatibility with other ONVIF products. This promotes the development and adoption of cutting-edge technologies within the sector.

The advantages of the ONVIF protocol

The ONVIF protocol presents benefits for security sector professionals and store owners alike, who are simply looking to protect their stock.

The advantages for security device professionals

The ONVIF standard offers several advantages to security equipment retailers. Firstly, the standard offers greater flexibility in product development. Secondly, it enables manufacturers to better stand out from their competitors. They focus on the quality and features of their products, rather than the creation of specific interfaces. Lastly, the ONVIF standard creates a much wider market for video surveillance professionals.

The advantages for security device users

The ONVIF standard also offers benefits for  video surveillance in stores. Store owners enjoy greater flexibility in their choice of surveillance equipment. It eliminates concerns over the integration of equipment from different brands, as they just need to decide which equipment suits them best. This is a great solution for making the most of using the  best video surveillance cameras.